The transportation of food and other goods across the U.S.-Mexico border has always raised many questions among the public. The issue has resurfaced after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers recently fined individuals $300 for attempting to bring prohibited items into the United States.
According to local media, the incident took place at the Hidalgo International Bridge near Reynosa, Tamaulipas. Unidentified travelers attempted to enter the country with fruits and other food items that are not permitted.
Specialists from the CBP Office of Field Operations carried out the operation, seizing the undeclared goods, which were found inside an ice chest.
In a statement, CBP revealed the seized items:
- 6 propagative roots
- 1 kg of fresh avocado leaves
- 1 kg of fresh mango leaves
- 1 kg of fresh guava leaves
- 1 kg of pork chorizo
- 2 soursop
- 1 kg of mango pulp
- 1 kg of nances
- 2 apples
- 1 kg of pork meat
- 8 propagative plant units
- 5 kg of soil
Importance of Declaring Items
Carlos Rodríguez, Director of the Hidalgo/Pharr/Anzalduas Port of Entry, emphasized that failing to declare prohibited agricultural products can result in significant expenses. The individuals involved were fined $300.
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Finally, the federal agency reiterated its commitment to enforcing U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations, which aim to prevent the entry of plant and animal pests and diseases into the country.
Although the $300 fine is already substantial, these penalties can reach up to $1,000, underscoring the importance of declaring items in advance.
Below are some items prohibited by CBP:
- Alcoholic beverages: Depending on the quantity. Absinthe must be “thujone-free” and is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
- Cars: Must comply with federal standards and requirements from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT).
- Food: Items containing meat products or rice.
- Plants and seeds: Some require import permits, while others are outright banned.
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